3 weeks ago
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MANILA, Philippines — "Sunshine," a sports drama film written and directed by Antoinette Jadaone and starring Maris Racal, won the Crystal Bear at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival.
In the film, Maris Racal plays Sunshine, a young gymnast who finds out she is pregnant on the week of the national tryouts. FACEBOOK PHOTO/PROJECT 8 PROJECTS
"Today, on February 21, the Crystal Bears of the Generation 14plus Youth Jury and Prizes of the Generation International Jury, endowed by the Bundeszentrale für politische Bildung (Federal Agency for Civic Education), have been presented in Generation 14plus," Berlinale announced on its official social media pages Saturday (Manila time).
The Generation 14plus Youth Jury members — Nour Ibrahim, Zeynep Atay, Tyler Kurokhtin, Jil Baalmann and Rohan Yadav — selected "Sunshine" for the award.
Generation 14plus is a section of the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) that focuses on films for audiences aged 14 and older. It showcases stories that explore themes relevant to teenagers and young adults, often addressing coming-of-age narratives, social issues and personal struggles.
Antoinette Jadaone's 'Sunshine' starring Maris Racal wins the Berlin International Film Festival’ prestigious Crystal Bear Award for Best Film. INSTAGRAM PHOTO/BERLINALE
On its website, the jury praised "Sunshine" for its "sensitive view on its modern and socially critical topic and its strong message. It touched us not only through the acting performances, but also with its dark, yet hopeful and empowering atmosphere, which the filmmakers created with their way of storytelling."
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"It raises our awareness by confronting us with the reality of the social and political problems it addresses, which unfortunately still exist today. The film's balance of different moral perspectives and impressive stylistic elements creates an immersive reality that feels authentic and deeply moving," the jury continued.
"Nothing about it feels exaggerated or distant — it draws us in and enables us to experience the characters' inner conflicts in an inspiring way that stays with us long after we've finished watching. Whether or not viewers can directly identify with the issues it tackles, we believe this film will leave a lasting impact," they added.
"Sunshine" follows a young gymnast who discovers she is pregnant the week of the national tryouts. The film premiered on Sept. 13, 2024, at the Toronto International Film Festival and later screened at the 2025 Berlinale as part of the Generation 14plus section.
The film had a sold-out premiere at Berlinale.
"Director Antoinette Jadaone, along with actor Elijah Canlas and the team of 'Sunshine,' attended the film's packed screening at a 1,000-seat theater! They also held an engaging Q&A after more than a minute of applause at the end of the film. 'Sunshine' is competing at this year's Berlinale under the Generation 14 category!" Project 8 Projects shared on social media.
On Feb. 13, Racal attended the opening ceremony and the screening of "Das Licht," wearing a lime green chiffon gown designed by Jot Losa.
In addition to Racal, "Sunshine" stars Elijah Canlas, Xyriel Manabat, Jennica Garcia, Annika Co and Meryll Soriano.
